If you’re still using store-bought lotion, there are incredibly easy natural alternatives that are also fun to create! This homemade lotion recipe uses just three basic ingredients and takes only ten minutes to make.
The basic recipe is an ultra-moisturizing, water-free version that lasts for years without needing preservatives. While traditional lotion is typically a mixture of water and oil-based skincare ingredients, this version is oil-based, offering a texture similar to body butter, ideal for dry skin.
Homemade Lotion
Years ago, I discovered I could make my own skincare products using natural ingredients, and I haven’t looked back since! From homemade lip balm to whipped body butter, I enjoy creating my own products. Lotion bars were one of my first projects, and I’ve expanded to other types of lotions as well. This version uses unrefined coconut oil, almond oil, and shea butter to deeply nourish the skin.
Most lotions require emulsifying wax to blend distilled water and carrier oils, which can be tricky to manage at home and need preservatives to prevent spoilage. This DIY lotion avoids that issue by not including water. The shelf life can be further extended by adding vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps prevent the oils from becoming rancid too quickly.
Choosing a Carrier Oil
I use sweet almond oil as the carrier oil because it’s a balanced, medium-weight oil—not as heavy as coconut oil, but more moisturizing than something like grapeseed oil. However, you can substitute it with your preferred liquid carrier oil. Jojoba, olive oil, or avocado oil are also excellent options.
This lotion is extremely moisturizing and more oily compared to water-based lotions, so less is required. It also has a longer shelf life than some homemade lotion recipes because all the ingredients are shelf-stable and no water is added.
Custom Lotion Making
Once you master the base recipe, you can have fun customizing your lotion to suit your skin type, skin conditions, and desired scent!
There are countless variations, but some of my favorites include:
- Baby Lotion – Infuse the oil with dried calendula and chamomile before making the lotion.
- Cooling Muscle Rub – Add peppermint, wintergreen, and ginger for sore muscles.
- Anti-aging Face Lotion – Use argan oil and add lavender and patchouli essential oils.
- Lavender and Vanilla Lotion – Add a few drops of lavender and a hint of natural vanilla extract.
Essential Oil Safety
How many drops of essential oils should you add to your DIY lotion? It depends on the essential oil and your preference. If you add the optional shea butter, 45 drops of essential oil will yield a 1% dilution. A 2% dilution is typically considered safe for skincare products like lotion.
If you prefer a strong scent, you could double the amount to reach 2%. For a lighter scent or if you have sensitive skin, you can reduce the amount by half or even less.
Certain oils like wintergreen, cinnamon, and lemongrass are harsh and require smaller quantities. Others, like grapefruit and lime, are phototoxic. Some of my favorite skin-friendly essential oils to use include:
Don’t Want to Make It?
If you’d like a healthy lotion but aren’t inclined to make it or don’t have the ingredients, there are quality store-bought options available. These lotions, made with clean ingredients, will help hydrate parched skin.
Homemade DIY Lotion Recipe
Create smooth, luxurious lotion at home with almond oil, coconut oil, beeswax, and optional essential oils.
Yield: 9 ounces
Author: Katie Wells
- Combine the almond oil, coconut oil, beeswax, and shea or cocoa butter in a double boiler, or use a glass bowl on top of a simmering pan of water.
- Stir occasionally while the ingredients melt.
- Once the ingredients are fully melted, add the vitamin E oil and any essential oils or vanilla.
- Pour into a glass jar or tin for storage and cool to room temperature. Small mason jars work perfectly for this. Note: This will not dispense well in a lotion pump!
- A little goes a long way! This lotion is highly nourishing and excellent for diaper rash, eczema, and preventing stretch marks.
- Store in a cool, dry place for up to 1-2 years.
Other Homemade Lotion Recipe Variations
There are many ways to create your own lotion at home. Here are more lotion tutorials to explore:
Have you ever tried making DIY lotion before? How did it turn out? Let me know!
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